basicUcho
- Large ⌀20.3 mm capsule for low self-noise and high sensitivity
- Exceptionally low self-noise (~14 dBA)
- Phantom powered (24–48 V)
- Industry-standard XLR-3M balanced transformer-less output
- Rugged build for field recording and demanding use
- Omnidirectional pickup pattern
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Transduction principle | Pre-polarized condenser (electret) |
| Directional characteristic | Omnidirectional |
| Sensitivity (free field, 1 kHz) | −24 dB re 1 V/Pa (≈63 mV/Pa) at 1 kHz, ±3 dB (unit-to-unit) |
| Equivalent noise level (A-weighted) | ~14 dBA |
| Maximum input SPL | ~110 dB |
| Power supply | 24–48 V phantom (IEC 61938) |
| Current consumption | ~3 mA per pin |
| Rated output impedance | 30–50 Ω |
| Minimum load impedance | 1 kΩ |
| Output connector | XLR-3M |
| Output type | Balanced transformer-less |
| Dimensions | 80 mm × ⌀20.3 mm |
| Operating temperature | −10 °C to +55 °C |
| Storage temperature | −25 °C to +70 °C |
Read this before first use
- Never open or disassemble the microphone. There are no user-serviceable parts inside, and opening it voids the warranty.
- Protect the microphone from water and moisture. It is not waterproof. If it gets damp, let it dry fully at room temperature before using it again.
- Keep dust out. Store the microphones in a closed case or pouch when not in use — dust combined with humidity can cause crackling noises that require factory cleaning.
- Mind the temperature. Operate only between −10 °C and +55 °C, and don't leave the microphone in direct sun or a parked car.
- Protect your hearing. When monitoring on headphones, start at low volume and raise it gradually — unexpected loud sounds can occur at high gain.
Will it work with my recorder?
basicUcho needs one XLR microphone input with phantom power (24–48 V, IEC 61938) and any standard XLR cable — unlike the Uši series, no special cable is required (and none is included). Any recorder or preamp with 48 V phantom works; a 24 V mode saves battery with identical performance.
Quick start
- Connect basicUcho to your recorder's XLR mic input with a standard XLR cable.
- Turn on phantom power (usually labeled 48 V) — on some recorders this is a switch, on others a menu setting. Check your recorder's manual.
- Put on headphones and set the gain: start low, then raise it until the loudest sounds you expect peak around −12 dB. Gently rub a finger near the capsule to confirm it's live.
- Make a short test recording and listen back before the real take.
Recording in stereo
Two basicUchos make a stereo pair — and we can sensitivity-match them if you order them together. Matching can't be done retroactively.
Using the basicUcho mount (optional accessory)
Fit basicUcho into the basicUcho mount to attach it to a microphone stand or hold it in position.
Using the wind protection — basicUcho windkiller (optional accessory)
For outdoor recording, fit the basicUcho windkiller over the capsule to reduce wind noise.
basicUcho is built for quiet sources and rough conditions: nature ambiences and bioacoustics (the large capsule keeps self-noise at ~14 dBA), acoustic research, sound art, and long unattended recording sessions where its rugged body earns its keep. The capsule responds beyond the audible range (up to ~60 kHz) for ultrasound work. It trades maximum level for sensitivity — sources above ~110 dB SPL (loud concerts, close machinery) may distort; for those, reach for the Uši series instead.
Storage. Keep the microphones in a closed case or pouch, away from dust and humidity. Coil the cables loosely — sharp bends shorten their life.
Cleaning. Wipe the body with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Never use solvents or compressed air, and never poke anything into the capsule openings. If a connector gets dirty, wipe the contacts with a dry cloth.
Condensation. When you bring the microphones from cold outdoor air into a warm room, moisture can condense inside the capsules and cause crackling or popping sounds. This is not a fault — let them acclimatize for 30–60 minutes and the noise will disappear on its own. If crackling persists in normal conditions, contact us rather than attempting to clean the capsule yourself.
Dusty or dirty environments. Use wind protection even indoors when recording in dusty places — it keeps particles out of the capsule.
- No sound, or a very quiet signal → is phantom power actually on, and on the right input? Try a known-good XLR cable. See no signal.
- Crackling or popping → most often condensation after a temperature change. See crackling and popping.
- Distortion on loud sources → lower the gain; above ~110 dB SPL the capsule itself overloads. See distortion.
- Hum or buzz → almost always a cable or powering issue. See hum and buzz.
Manual PDF download coming soon
Warranty. LOM products are covered by a two-year guarantee beginning on the date of purchase. Keep your proof of purchase — it is required for any claim. Within the guarantee period we will, at our discretion, repair or replace products with defects in materials or workmanship. The guarantee does not cover damage caused by misuse, mechanical damage, moisture, unauthorized modification, or use with third-party cables or power sources outside the published specifications. Destructive opening of certain parts of the product voids the warranty.
Repairs. Before sending anything back, contact us with a description of the problem and your proof of purchase — many issues can be resolved without shipping.
Declaration of conformity. This product complies with the applicable European directives, including EMC Directive 2014/30/EU, when used with cables and accessories supplied by LOM.
Disposal. Do not dispose of the product in household waste. Like all electrical and electronic equipment, it must be handed in at a WEEE collection point at the end of its life.
Manufacturer: LOM s.r.o., Jelenia 10, 811 05 Bratislava, Slovakia · store.lom.audio